Cycling is an incredible way to explore the scenic views around Aspen. Surprisingly despite Aspens reputation, there is a route for almost any level of bike rider. If you are visiting town without a bike there are a number of ways to get some wheels. My favorite bike shop in town is Ute City Cycles where you can rent the most sophisticated bikes for your ride. If you are looking to go a little more mellow, Aspen Velo has more cruiser style bikes for around town, or the bike path that I'll explain below.
Rio Grande Trail and Biking to Woody Creek Tavern (Mellow Cruiser Ride)
The easiest way to go if you are looking for a mellow bike ride experience is the Rio Grande Bike trail. This trail starts in Aspen and goes all the way down to Glenwood Springs it is beautiful the entire ride. A great day activity is to take the trail from the town of Aspen down to the Woody Creek Tavern for lunch. The way there is mostly downhill and very easy 9 mile ride. The way back is slightly harder and almost all uphill so many people will put their bikes on the bus or pay for a shuttle back to town. Blazing Adventures actually does a guided tour if you are worried that provides bikes directions and the shuttle service that you can see here.
Mountain Biking: Cozy Line (Intermediate)
Just a 3.2 mile ride but you will be gaining almost 1,000 feet in elevation. This was my first ever mountain bike ride, and while it was challenging, anyone in decent shape can handle it. Very fun ride and you have the option of connecting to a bunch of trails once you make it to the top. If you are interested in trying out some mountain biking this is a GREAT place to start. To get there take a left at the intercept lot, go a few miles up the road and there will be a turnoff to the right across from a bridge. The trail is obvious from the road. Check out the specs on Mountain Project here.
Road Biking: Castle Creek Road to Ashcroft (Difficult)
25 miles round trip this bike ride offers stunning views the entire way. I think it is a little more mellow than the ride to the Maroon Bells but it is always a challenging ride with about 2,000 feet in elevation gain. This ride is very rewarding and the 11 miles home is all downhill. Make sure you have the proper gear for this ride though, you will be out of cell service. Get outfitted by Ute City Cycles here and you should be good for the very rewarding ride.
There is a ton to do on a bike here in in Aspen, and I will have more post dedicated to biking up soon but feel free to as any questions!
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